Biden says dissent must not lead to disorder and his support for Israel remains unwavering amid college protests

President Joe Biden on Thursday reiterated his support for Israel as protests against the war in Gaza spread on college campuses across the country.

President Joe Biden on Thursday attempted to balance the right to free speech and his desire for law and order in his first extensive remarks on campus protests against the war in Gaza – but insisted he has not changed his support for Israel. In brief remarks from the White House before leaving for North Carolina on Thursday, Biden acknowledged that the right to free speech and the right to protest are fundamental American principals, but added: “We are not a lawless country.” “We’re a civil society,” Biden said. “And order must prevail.” Biden’s remarks were the most substantive he’s given since protesters have set up encampments on college campuses across the country to protest how Israel has waged its campaign in Gaza, and demand that their universities take steps to divest from the country. After his speech, Biden dismissed a reporter’s question over whether the demonstrations have caused him to reassess American policy in the Middle East, simply saying, “No.” More than 1,000 protesters have been arrested nationwide in the days since encampments have popped up. At some campuses, protesters have overtaken school buildings. An encampment at UCLA was attacked by pro-Israel counter protesters.